Festive cheer in a box for vulnerable islanders

Friday 25 December 2020

Tea, coffee, jam, festive biscuits and chocolate were among the items delivered to vulnerable as part of a partnership between the Co-op and local charities.

As part of its 'Christmas in a Box', the Co-op packed 388 packages to bring festive sparkle to islanders in need.

The boxes - which were filled with staples such as tea, coffee, jam and shower gel as well as festive biscuits, chocolate and crisps - were distributed to seven Jersey charities: the Salvation Army, Shelter Trust, Grace Trust, Freedom Church, Jersey Association of Youth and Friendship, Causeway Association and Sanctuary Trust.

"This is a new initiative from the Co-op and we are really pleased to make a difference to people who will appreciate a little extra help this Christmas," Ell Hopton, community and sustainability Manager at the Channel Islands Co-operative Society, said. 

"There are many charities and organisations that go out of their way to support vulnerable people throughout the year and we know that 2020 has been an extremely challenging year for many."

"This Christmas our aim is to provide boxes which bring a little festive cheer to those who need it," she added.

"Our teams have been working hard to collect the items and pack boxes and we hope they will make a difference to the Islanders who receive the treats."

The Salvation Army received 100 festive boxes to support local people in Jersey. "This Christmas is going to be different for all of us but for many it is also going to be extremely difficult as people find themselves financially struggling, out of work, or unable to see friends and family due to the pandemic," Emily Smith, Community Centre Manager, said.

"We are having to do Christmas a little differently than planned this year but will still be delivering a Christmas dinner to a number of Islanders on Christmas Day.

"The donation of festive goodies from the Co-op means a huge amount to the Salvation Army and will make a big difference to those financially struggling or lonely this winter. Having a treat kindly donated will make all the difference to their Christmas Day."

 This Christmas, the Co-op is also donating hand sanitiser and thermometers to charities and community groups, including the Grace Trust and the Salvation Army, to ensure they can remain open and provide much needed services over the busy festive period.